The kidnappers who abducted 28 travellers – consisting of men, women and children – in Zak community, Bashar district of Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, are demanding a ransom of N1.5 million from the families of each victim.
The victims were taken on Sunday night while travelling to attend a Maulud event in Sabon Layi community in the same Bashar district when gunmen ambushed their vehicle, abducting them and abandoning the vehicle.
A relative of one of the victims, Ibrahim Musa, told journalists on Tuesday that the abductors called the family for ransom, saying their relatives arrived at their den in good condition but must pay N1.5 million per person for their release.
“The kidnappers called me last night, saying we must pay N1.5 million for each person, regardless of age or gender. But they assured us they are in good hands and nothing will happen to them,” Ibrahim said.
The relative explained that he told the kidnappers that they are poor and can’t afford it, pleading for mercy. “I told them we are villagers and don’t have that amount. Things are not easy for us in the village. Many of the victims are teenagers and their parents can’t afford it. So I pleaded with them.”
The Plateau State Police Command had said on Monday that it is investigating the incident.
Residents of the community are calling for increased security measures to address the growing cases of kidnapping, banditry, and cattle rustling in the Wase area due to the incessant criminal activities experienced in their communities.